The impact of childhood abuse on women's gynecologic health
Official title: Child Abuse and Risk of Gynecologic Disease in a North American Cohort
Funded at Boston University Medical Campus · NIH-10789719 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how childhood sexual abuse might affect women's health later in life, specifically regarding conditions like fibroids, endometriosis, and polycystic ovary syndrome, and it aims to find ways to help women cope with any related issues like pain or infertility.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University Medical Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | August 23, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $268,065 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HD114017-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10789719 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women who have experienced childhood sexual abuse and are currently facing gynecologic health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced childhood abuse or do not have gynecologic conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the long-term effects of childhood sexual abuse on the development of gynecologic conditions such as uterine leiomyomata, endometriosis, and polycystic ovarian syndrome in women. By analyzing data from a large cohort of female participants, the study aims to understand how early life trauma influences these conditions and their associated symptoms, including infertility and chronic pain. The research will also explore resilience factors that may help mitigate these adverse effects, providing insights into potential interventions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for women suffering from gynecologic diseases linked to childhood abuse.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have indicated a correlation between childhood abuse and gynecologic conditions, suggesting that this research builds on established findings rather than exploring a completely novel area.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston University Medical Campus
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wise, Lauren a — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Wise, Lauren a
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.